Jessica Mattox

After graduate school, I plan to pursue a tenure-track position as an instructor of English composition, creative writing, literature, and/or technical writing. Currently, I am a Graduate Teaching Assistant with the Radford University English Department. I teach one section of freshman composition each semester; I am also an independent piano instructor.

I am currently pursuing a Master of Arts in English Education at Radford University in Radford, Virginia. In my first semester with the English program (I switched from the education program), I took courses in teaching college composition as well as literary scholarship. Both were challenging and highly rewarding. Working as a Graduate Teaching Assistant, however, is my favorite part of my program. I was matched with a teaching partner and mentor, and the three of us worked to teach my mentor's syllabus for two semesters. I love having the chance to teach my own section of students and grow as an instructor. In fact, because of the experience, I now want to become an English professor! In addition, I enjoy presenting and publishing literary analysis, research, and creative writing.

My two biggest passions in life are English (particularly writing) and music. Ever since I was a young child, I have loved to explore the world around me by reading an eclectic range of genres, crafting pieces of creative writing, and simply asking questions. In particular, I love to write poetry and fiction--sometimes even with friends! My main instrument is the piano, although I played some percussion in middle and high school. I also love to drink coffee and tea, play Nancy Drew computer games, and watch classic TV shows such as Frasier; Murder, She Wrote; and The Andy Griffith Show. Sometimes, you can find me at an auction or flea market with my husband and his family--I'll probably be the one in the back reading, though. ;)